Seasonal influenza hit fifteen countries with total 128,367 cases from January to September 9 this year, and Myanmar is ranked tenth with 689 cases, according to data from the ministry of health and sports. 

Within that period, there 96,406 seasonal flu cases in China, 9,080 cases in India, 6,079 in Australia, 6,059 in Japan, 1,916 in Qatar, 1,675 in Bangladesh, 1,563 in Nepal, 1,172 in Thailand, 1,144 in Iran, 698 in Myanmar, 578 in Pakistan, 550 in Malaysia, 521 in Bhutan, 467 in Singapore and 459 in Cambodia. 

"We are continuously monitoring as ongoing  seasonal influenza A (H1N1) pdm 09. Meanwhile, we need to study both regional and neighbouring countries. In 2019, outbreaks in neighbouring countries such as  India, Bangladesh, China and Thailand are on the increase. Studying death rate, a few deaths only resulted from seasonal flu. Most deaths occurred among those suffering from diabetes, hypertension or other diseases. Most deaths occurred in those aged between 15 and 65. In all states and regions, Yangon Region has seen most cases especially in populous townships of Hlinethaya, Thingangyun, South Dagon, East Dagon and North  Oakkalapa," said Dr Tun Tin, director (infectious disease) from the public health department. 

From January to September 9 in Myanmar, there were 1,632 suspected seasonal flu cases with 553 A (H1N1) cases, 54 A (H3N2 cases, 91 influenza B cases and 698 seasonal flu cases.